Description
Indulge in the comforting layers of the Best Traditional Greek Pastitsio, a delightful baked pasta dish that brings together rich flavors and textures. This Mediterranean masterpiece features tender pasta enveloped in a savory meat sauce, topped with a creamy béchamel that creates an irresistible golden crust. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this pastitsio invites everyone to enjoy its hearty goodness. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this classic dish any night of the week.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450g) ziti or penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or lamb
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 14 oz crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/4 cup red apple vinegar (optional)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until soft.
- Add ground beef or lamb; cook until browned. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red apple vinegar (if using), cinnamon, nutmeg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15–20 minutes.
- For the béchamel sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, then gradually add milk while whisking until thickened; stir in nutmeg and cheese.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta, all of the meat sauce, remaining pasta, and pour béchamel on top.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg